Sub-terahertz sensor could help autonomous cars see through fog

Sub-terahertz wavelengths are between microwave and infrared radiation on the electromagnetic spectrum and can be detected through fog and dust clouds. A sub-terahertz imaging system sends an initial signal through a transmitter, then a receiver measures the absorption and reflection of the rebounding wavelengths. That sends a signal to a processor that recreates an image of the object.
The output signal can be used to calculate distance, similar to how LiDAR uses a laser to hit an object and rebound off it. By combining the output signals of an array of pixels and steering the pixels in a certain direction, high-resolution images can be formed. This not only allows for object detection but also recognition, something that’s crucial for higher level autonomous driving and advanced robotics functions.

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Comfort Systems USA Announces Acquisition

Business Wire | February 01, 2024

Comfort Systems USA, Inc. today announced that it has closed its previously announced transaction to acquire Summit Industrial Construction, LLC (“Summit”) headquartered in Houston, Texas. As previously disclosed, Summit is a specialty industrial mechanical contractor offering engineering, design-assist and turnkey, direct hire construction services of modular systems serving the advanced technology, power, and industrial sectors. Summit’s capabilities encompass a wide range of modular and site-based construction, including process piping, equipment setting, large pipe rack trestles, and related steel erection and specialty concrete work. Summit is a trusted supplier to some of the world’s largest advanced technology, power and industrial companies and is currently deployed on several major chip fabrication projects. Initially, Summit is expected to contribute annualized revenues of approximately $375 million to $400 million, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of $35 million to $40 million. In light of the amortization expense, Summit is expected to make a neutral to slightly accretive contribution to earnings per share in 2024 and 2025. Brian Lane, Comfort Systems USA’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are delighted to announce the closing of our agreement to acquire Summit, an extremely capable provider of modular and other complex mechanical services. Summit brings a stellar reputation as a modular technology leader in growing end markets, including multiple ongoing and large semiconductor projects. We are happy to welcome Summit’s wonderful leadership team and excellent production and craft workers across many states, and we are confident Summit will continue to innovate and grow as a part of our network of world-class contracting companies. We are grateful that Summit has chosen to become part of Comfort Systems USA.”

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